About the School
In 1976, studies in practical philosophy began in Toronto. These studies followed the example set by the School of Economic Science in London, England, where students were working to gain deeper insights into the natural laws governing humanity and the origin of those laws.
The Toronto School of Philosophy is a non profit organization. It was established to study the world’s philosophies and traditions in a practical and systematic way. The School set about doing this by seeking to discover the first principles of being, the true nature of man, and the laws which rule the creation.
APPROACH
Inspired by the Eastern concept of Advaita (a Sanskrit word meaning non-duality), and Western philosophical principles, the School of Philosophy is dedicated to helping individuals understand the world in which we live as they seek answers to big questions such as “Who am I?” “Why am I here?” “What is a worthwhile life?” and “What is truth?”
As the School draws on the wisdom of such ancients as Hermes, Socrates, Sri Shantanand Saraswati, and many more, students gain confidence in the intelligence that is inherent in the present moment and the unlimited potential that is available to every human being.
Writings and sayings of Plato, Ficino, Shakespeare, Emerson and other orators, set the stage for enlivened discussions based on personal experience as students awaken to conscious living in today’s society.
The School offers classes, workshops and retreats that focus on the practical exploration of scripture and universal principles and students are encouraged to discover the value of self-inquiry. By putting philosophical principles into practice in their own lives, students journey inward to learn of their true nature and the unity that sustains the diversity which we witness in daily life.
The School also provides instruction and guidance in the practice of meditation by hosting individual and group tutorial sessions.
STUDY
The Introductory Part 1 course is followed by building blocks of study which expand on foundational principles and establish practices introduced in the first term. Some of the topics that are explored in succeeding terms include: Happiness, Love and Freedom.
Meditation is offered some time after the third term.
In the study of practical philosophy, the student advances by steps … steps in understanding. As understanding increases there is an increased appreciation of the enormous wisdom that remains untapped and waiting to be accessed. Conscious living gives one an inroad into this wisdom and sheds light on daily living.
ORGANIZATION
The school was founded by Leon MacLaren, as the School of Economic Science in London, England. The course content and the overall direction of study are developed by Donald Lambie, the current leader of the School in London.
The leader of the School of Philosophy in Toronto is Paraic Lally.
Classes are led by experienced senior students who are long standing members of the School.
The School of Philosophy has a branch in the Niagara region in St. Catharines, Ontario.
The School is managed by a Board of Directors elected by the voting members of the School.
Annual general meetings take place in the Spring.